What are olives?
The olive is the fruit of the olive tree (Olea europaea), an emblematic tree of the Mediterranean basin, cultivated since Antiquity for its nutritional, medicinal and cosmetic virtues. Consumed as table olives or olive oil, it is at the heart of the Mediterranean diet, recognized for its protective effects on cardiovascular health and cellular aging.
Rich in antioxidants, monounsaturated fatty acids and polyphenols, olives are a natural superfood that benefits the body, skin and hair alike.
What are the benefits of olives?
The olive is a food with multiple properties that act on different levels of health:
How to eat olives
The olive is a versatile ingredient that comes in a variety of forms:
Table olives
Green (harvested before ripening) → Firmer and slightly bitter, they are rich in polyphenols and antioxidants.
Black (ripened on the tree) → Softer and richer in fat.
Ideal for salads, Mediterranean dishes, tapenades and aperitifs.
Extra virgin olive oil
Consume raw as a seasoning to preserve its nutritional qualities and fruity aroma.
For gentle cooking, ideal for healthy, tasty cuisine.
As a health supplement, one tablespoon a day provides essential fatty acids and protective antioxidants.
Olive leaves (infusion or extract)
Used in phytotherapy for their hypotensive and detoxifying properties.
Infused, they help regulate blood pressure and protect blood vessels.
Is olive oil good for skin and hair?
Yes, olive oil is a key ingredient in natural cosmetics, thanks to its nourishing and repairing properties:
Moisturizes and protects the skin against dryness and external aggressions.
Natural anti-aging effect thanks to its vitamin E and polyphenol content.
Regenerates and strengthens dry, damaged hair, restoring shine and suppleness.
Soothes skin irritations (eczema, psoriasis, redness).
It is used in many soaps, moisturizers, hair masks and massage oils.
Can olives help you lose weight?
Although rich in lipids, olive oil and olives are slimming allies when consumed in moderation:
What's the difference between green and black olives?
Green olive → Harvested before maturity, firmer and richer in polyphenols.
Black olive → Ripened, softer, fatter and slightly higher in calories.
Both have similar benefits, but green olives are slightly richer in antioxidants.
Where to buy quality olives and olive oil?
To reap the full benefits of olives, we recommend choosing high-quality products:
Organic stores and local producers → For olives without preservatives or additives.
Mediterranean grocers and artisanal markets → Guaranteeing cold-pressed olive oils from ancient varieties.
Pharmacies and stores specializing in phytotherapy → For olive leaf extracts with hypotensive and antioxidant properties.
Choose organic, cold-pressed, extra-virgin olive oil for a higher concentration of polyphenols and essential fatty acids.
Does olive oil have any contraindications?
Although beneficial, its consumption should be moderated in certain cases:
Olives in brine are high in salt → limit consumption in cases of high blood pressure or water retention.
Olive oil remains calorific → Excessive consumption can slow down weight loss.
Olive leaf extracts may interact with certain hypotensive treatments → Medical advice recommended in case of cardiovascular treatment.
Are olives used in perfumery and cosmetics?
Yes, olives and olive oil are key ingredients in :
Traditional soaps, notably Aleppo soap and Marseille soap.
Hair care products, to nourish and strengthen dry, damaged hair.
Anti-ageing and moisturizing creams, for their regenerating and protective effect.
Its soft, vegetal fragrance is sometimes used in Mediterranean perfumery to add a warm, green note to olfactory compositions.
The olive is an essential health food, recognized for its antioxidant, digestive and cardiovascular properties. Whether in the form of table olives, olive oil or leaf extracts, it is a true ally for well-being and longevity. Its richness in lipids, polyphenols and vitamins makes it a precious ingredient for health, cooking and cosmetics.
